To Sell or Not to Sell? What Budget 2026 Means for Your Home in Waterford
- Posted by Michael Griffin in Tips & Advice
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By Michael Griffin, Griffin Auctioneers
If you’re thinking about selling your home in Waterford, Budget 2026 brings some important updates that could influence your decision. With major investment announced for housing and supply expected to grow in the coming years, this could be a key moment to act while market conditions remain in your favour.
A Record Housing Budget with Long-Term Impact
Budget 2026 includes over €11.3 billion for housing, with €7.2 billion allocated to new builds. That is the largest capital investment in housing the state has ever seen. The goal is clear: increase supply, improve affordability and regenerate town and city centres. For Waterford, that means more funding for land development, planning, and incentives to bring derelict and vacant homes back into use.
The VAT on new apartments is being cut from 13.5% to 9 percent to make building more viable. There are new tax breaks for converting unused buildings into residential units, and the Living City Initiative, which covers Waterford city centre, has been extended to 2030 and now applies to homes built before 1975.
These changes are welcome, but most of them will take time to filter into the local market. For now, supply remains tight.
It Is Still a Seller’s Market in Waterford
Local prices have been rising steadily. According to Daft.ie, average asking prices in Waterford city are up 11% year-on-year, outperforming the national average. Homes are selling fast and often above asking price. Nationally, one in five properties is selling for over 20 percent more than its listed price.
Stock remains very low. MyHome.ie reports just 13,000 homes available nationwide, with Waterford listings well below average. That puts sellers in a strong position, especially those of two and three bedroom houses – at least for now.
If your home suits young families or couples, that demand could work in your favour. And if your property is in the city centre, the expanded Living City tax relief for renovation could make it more appealing to buyers with a vision.
My Advice Today: Understand The Landscape Before You Decide
With so much budget being put into building and regeneration, more homes are going to come on stream in the next couple of years. New developments, cost-rental units and increased planning activity will gradually give buyers more choice.
That means today’s market – where demand still outweighs supply, may not last forever.
Every home and situation is different – and the market is changing constantly. If you’re considering a move, now is a good time to have a conversation about what’s happening in Waterford and how current conditions might affect your plans. Understanding your options is the first step – and we’re always happy to talk it through with no pressure.
Michael Griffin, GriffinAuctioneers.ie
PSRA License No. 001644-005172